Accessibility blog part 4: graphic design and print

Graphic design and print have the power to inspire, inform and captivate ‒ but only when they’re accessible to all.

Here are 6 ways to ensure your graphic design and print materials are easy to engage with:

1. Choose Accessible Fonts
Some fonts are easier to read than others, especially for people with dyslexia or low vision. Avoid decorative or overly stylised fonts and stick to clear, sans-serif options like Arial or Verdana. The simpler the font, the smoother the reading experience.

2. Provide Alternative Formats
Not everyone reads print the same way. Offering alternative formats, such as large-print brochures or digital versions, ensures your content is accessible to those with visual impairments or specific needs.

3. Formats and Text Size
Picture this ‒ you’re engrossed in some beautiful print, but the tiny font makes you squint. Whether it’s a small flyer or a longer brochure, people always appreciate a comfy reading experience. The general rule of thumb for print text is to use a 12 point font but 14 tends to be most advisable. It’s a game changer for people with visual impairments, dyslexia or anyone who craves an easy read!

4. Use Left Align Text
Text alignment essentially controls the way we read. Since we read from left to right, left aligned text is the go-to alignment format and should be used as much as possible for the best reading experience.

5. Justification
Justified text is a text block that is aligned with both margins of the page. It’s not commonly used in digital text, but in print ‒ designers love to use it. Whilst aesthetically pleasing, it creates issues for people with dyslexia or low vision. Why? Justified text introduces blank spaces between words and characters, creating incoherent spacing that forces your eyes to “jump” when reading. Assistive Technologies and screen magnifiers themselves become disorientated by this, and users will see blank spaces and words running into each other. The antidote? It’s simple – avoid using full text justification and stick to left alignment.

6. Colour Contrast
In simple terms, colour contrast is how one colour stands out from another. In graphic design or any print, colours should clearly stand out from one another for readability. You can use online colour checkers to see if there’s enough contrast between colours ‒ best practice is at least 25% for overlaid text on a coloured background.

Want to make your graphic design and print stand out for all the right reasons? Get in touch today ‒ we’re just a conversation away!